Although there are several differences between the movie and the book, this scene where Andy plays music throughout the whole Shawshank is one of the biggest differences between the two. This scene enriches the emotion of the movie considerably and leaves a great impression on the viewers. For the prisoners this music made them feel free and filled their hearts with hope just as Andy had intended to.
Also on Red’s birthday, Andy gives Red a birthday present: a harmonica. Later the movie shows Red sitting alone in his cell around the time the lights go off and playing a short note on the harmonica. Here harmonica is also symbolic of freedom since music, in other words playing the harmonica, is only possible outside in the free world. Especially the harmonica takes on a even more significant meaning in that it is an object which reminds Red of Andy and his struggle for freedom.
It is widely regarded that music can offer hope and a sense of freedom. Music can reach both the mind and the heart even when words fail. It can touch the spirit and revitalize faith. Also it can provide rich moments of sharing for friends and family such as it was for the prisoners in Shawshank who felt united by the music playing from the speaker. By adding the scene with the Mozart music and also the scene with the harmonica present, the movie strengthens the theme of hope and freedom with the help of the powerful connotation music has.
Music is an interesting theme to pick out from the many that exist, and definitely a theme that the book didn't have as strongly. On that note, the film's score is, in my opinion, really really good. From the 30's swing ballad at the beginning to the dramatic classical score during Andy's escape - all perfectly matched. Frank Darabont really added some nice elements, and that scene (plus the Brooks story) really make the movie that much more emotional.
답글삭제Good observations and nice inclusion of video.